This last weekend, I spent some quality time with four of my dear girlfriends. We had all worked together at IBM (at one point), and have kept in touch over the years. Although we have only gotten together as a group every couple of years, the bonds we forged over many years remain strong and in tact (LOL girlfriends – our inside jokes!)

In about 24 hours, we caught up with each others’ lives, challenges and triumphs. We truly have been a witness to each others’ lives over the years. We laughed until our sides hurt, and we shared tears through touching stories. We vowed once again to make this an annual event.

The gift of friendship is one of the greatest human experiences, in my opinion. Friendship must be cultivated, nurtured and honored at all times. Each one of us felt blessed to be in the presence of such powerful, yet humble women. We share common values of respect and love for each other as well as those in our lives.

I was reminded once again that what really matters in life are the relationships we hold dear. I am once again inspired to be the best me I can be, to be a great friend, and to seek ways to leave a legacy and to make a difference in this world. Thank you dear friends for your love, for your support, and for your lasting friendship!

One day this last week, I was rushing to the grocery store, in between appointments, to pick up a few items we needed. I mean I was almost literally running through the store. As I left the checkout line and headed for the door, an older gentleman was ahead of me, so there was no way to pass him as he was going out the door.

It appeared this man was just getting used to his new prosthetic limb for a recently amputated leg. He was struggling, gingerly using his walker as he made his way out the door. It was obvious that this was a new experience for him – he was so totally focused on each small step he took. It caused me to pause, and to reflect on how thankful I am for my health, and all I have in my life.

Sometimes, God puts in our path something or someone to provide us with a reminder to slow down – to be thankful for what we have, and to love each fellow human being for the gifts they share. I said a small prayer for this man, giving him strength as he walks his path.

What about you? Are there parts of your life where slowing down a little could bring gratitude, insight or another perspective? I know there is for me. Here’s to taking time to reflect and appreciate all that we have been given.

For a long time now, I have dreamed of learning to fly. It was one of those things on my “bucket list”. Over the past few years, I had found many excuses for why I could not do it, primarily because I thought I was too old. I should have learned to fly a couple of decades ago!

Part of my spiritual journey has been developing affirmations. In SendOutCards, we call them “I AM” statements. One day recently, I was looking back at some cards I had created over the past 5 years as a part of SendOutCards. On at least two of these cards, I had declared “I am a pilot.” A few months back, I saw an advertisement in our local paper one morning for a seminar – “Learn To Fly, Live Your Dream”. I shared this with my wonderful husband and he said, “Go for it!” So, I took an introductory lesson and bought a block of flying hours. Sometimes, I am still amazed I am doing this!

When I am in that plane, I HAVE to focus – 110% on what I am doing – on living in the moment totally. It has been quite an experience, and I am enjoying the mental acrobats it is forcing me to do. In order to be a leader, to achieve what we want in life, or just to be present with those we love, we must put aside other distraction and be in the moment. Can you think of a time when you have been in the moment 100%? Isn’t it an exhilarating feeling? What is on your bucket list that YOU still want to accomplish in your life? It is NEVER too late to go for your dreams.